“Damn…remember how good U2 used to be?”

Let me just start out and say that The Moth & The Flame are one of the best bands I’ve ever seen in a small venue.   Let me also say that I didn’t know a thing about them or the headliner, POP ETC, when I arrived at Adelaide Hall.  But the bands I’ve enjoyed most are usually the ones I know the least about.

The Moth & The Flame took to the stage and as soon as Brandon Robbins started singing the crowd silenced and moved towards the stage.   He has a soaring and pitch perfect voice that instantly reminds you of Bono…well Bono when he still had a soaring and pitch perfect voice (Think Achtung Baby era Bono mixed with the rawness of “Kite” from All That You Can’t Leave Behind”).  And upon thinking of this you’ll also be left wondering “Damn…remember how good U2 used to be?”.    But there’s so much more to this band than a vocally similarity to U2.   They’re a tremendous 4 piece that sounds like there are way more musicians on stage.   Their songs are smart, powerful and catchy as hell.    I’d go out of my way to see this band again.

Following a powerful opener is no easy task but tonight’s headliner was more than up for the task.  POP ETC, a powerful trio by way of Berkeley and Brooklyn, powered through an intense and entertaining set.  Touring in support of their January 2016 release “Souvenir”, this is a band to watch (and I’d hoped to see on a lot of summer festival lineups).   Even their Tears For Fears covers are clever and catchy.    Their sound is a great blend of indie rock and synth pop, and the band’s appreciation of the crowd and their love for Toronto came across in their banter and energy.

This was definitely a night that was over too quickly.  The sets flew by and left you wanting more while their songs echoed in your head.    Check out The Moth & The Flame  and POP ETC  as soon as you can.

 
We give this night a perfect 6 out of 6ix.